Celeste Bodner

Celeste Bodner is the head honcho at FosterClub. Founder and Executive Director, Bodner started FosterClub in 1999 on the principle that self-advocacy, access to information and youth involvement are keys to well-being and resilience in care. Before then, she ran a small communications agency in Portland, Oregon working with the likes of Nike, Pottery Barn and Centex Homes. Foster care has always a part of Bodner's life. At five years old, her family fostered six siblings who lost their parents. At 26 years old, Celeste and her husband became foster parents to 10 and 12 year old boys. The experience of entering foster care - them as foster parents, Gary and Terry as youth - sowed the seeds for FosterClub.

Accolades

Named "Woman Working Wonders" (link is external) by MORE Magazine and First Lady Michelle Obama's Staff

Check out her answers to some questions, especially Two Truths, One Lie!

FC: What is your position at FosterClub

CB: Head Coach

FC: What do you do when you are not working?

CB: In my mind, I'm an aspiring artist. However, I tend to produce more doodles than art. During down time, I really like to go to the beach with my dogs. I also love road trips.

FC: What are you primary job responsibilities?

CB: Stuff like making decisions, having a vision and - on occasion - breaking rules!

FC: Tell us two truths, one lie about you. (Don't tell us which one is the lie!)

CB: 1) I can fly in my dreams and it is really fun, but I have a paralyzing fear of flying in real life. 2) I love nothing more than a bacon-on-bacon sandwich. With bacon on the side. 3) I am undefeated at thumb wrestling.

FC: What is your favorite thing about coming to work each day?

CB: Bono said, "What a privilege it is to be put in a place where you can change a life - even one life." Every day, I am inspired by the young people of FosterClub. The energy, optimism and resilience they bring to our organization is infectious. That's what drives me.